In the age of social media, why do we often express things online that we would never dare to say face-to-face? Imagine witnessing someone ridiculing a heavier individual in a café, telling a same-sex couple they should end their lives, or labeling a Muslim woman a terrorist. Would you intervene?
A recent public service announcement (PSA) for Bullying Prevention Month poses this very question, emphasizing the alarming contrast between our online behaviors and those we exhibit in real life. The video, titled In Real Life: An Offline Experiment, features actors portraying bullies and their victims, using actual hurtful comments sourced from social media. Phrases like “I genuinely despise fat people,” “Being gay is a sickness,” and “All Muslims are terrorists” are brought to life in public settings. To the surprise of many, bystanders often step in to defend those being harassed, showcasing a stark difference in reactions compared to the online world.
Produced by Monica Larkins in collaboration with BBDO New York, this PSA aims to provoke reflection on our online conduct. Larkins shared with a media outlet that the video reveals how anonymity can embolden people to say things they would never express in person—highlighting the inhumanity of their actions. It serves as a jarring reminder to reconsider how we behave online compared to face-to-face interactions.
Moreover, the video illustrates that bullying can be challenged when individuals choose to support one another. The bystanders featured were not actors; their genuine responses to witnessing real social media posts were heartening. Many intervened without resorting to further bullying the aggressors, instead choosing to uplift the victims.
The power of this video lies in its relatability. In today’s digital landscape, who hasn’t faced unkind remarks online? During my college days, I had the thrill of seeing my first article published in a local newspaper, only to be crushed by a comment that read, “Awful article. Do better.” Despite knowing it’s wise to avoid reading the comments, curiosity often gets the best of us. People have said some downright cruel things about my writing online—one individual even suggested I find a job kicking kittens. In person, however, I receive compliments. The presence of a keyboard creates a divide that seems to strip away our humanity.
Videos like In Real Life prompt us to question why we tolerate such behavior online. Perhaps they will inspire us to foster a less hospitable environment for bullies. If you’re interested in exploring ways to support your own family planning journey, check out this resource on home insemination kits, or learn more about your options through this informative site. Additionally, Resolve offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, the video serves as a powerful reminder of the disconnect between online and offline behaviors, urging us to reconsider our actions and the impact they have on others.